Systems and methods for customizing amusement park attraction experiences using pneumatic robotic systems

ABSTRACT

A system may include a housing that may hold a body of water, an inflatable assembly disposed within the body of water, and a processor. The processor may receive an indication related to a speed of a flow of the body of water and send a signal to at least one valve coupled between the inflatable assembly and a fluid source in response to the indication. The signal may cause the at least one valve to fluidly couple the inflatable assembly to the fluid source to cause the inflatable assembly to expand to an inflated configuration.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/393,928, entitled “PNEUMATIC ROBOTIC SYSTEMS,” filedSep. 13, 2016, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entiretyfor all purposes.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of amusementparks. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relateto systems and methods for providing and enhancing amusement parkexperiences related to pneumatic robotic systems.

Various amusement rides and exhibits have been created to provide guestswith unique interactive, motion, and visual experiences. In variousrides and exhibits, guest experiences may be enhanced by employingcertain interactive robotic features within the rides and exhibits.However, it is now recognized that various mechanical devices thatactuate these interactive components may often appear to move in alinear or excessively mechanical manner that leaves the user with theimpression of interacting with a robot, as opposed to a more life-likeobject.

SUMMARY

A summary of certain embodiments disclosed herein is set forth below. Itshould be understood that these aspects are presented merely to providethe reader with a brief summary of these certain embodiments and thatthese aspects are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.Indeed, this disclosure may encompass a variety of aspects that may notbe set forth below.

In one embodiment, a system may include a housing that may hold a bodyof water, an inflatable assembly disposed within the body of water, anda processor. The processor may receive an indication related to a speedof a flow of the body of water and send a signal to at least one valvecoupled between the inflatable assembly and a fluid source in responseto the indication. The signal may cause the at least one valve tofluidly couple the inflatable assembly to the fluid source to cause theinflatable assembly to expand to an inflated configuration.

In another embodiment, an inflatable assembly of a park attraction mayinclude a first zone and a second zone separated from the first zone bya distance. The inflatable assembly may also include an inflatableobject and one or more valves. The one or more valves are controllableand may direct fluid flow into the inflatable object, such that theinflatable object adjusts an incline of a portion of the inflatableassembly between the first zone and the second zone in the inflatedconfiguration. The inflatable assembly may also include a processor thatmay adjust one or more positions of the one or more valves to controlthe fluid flow into the inflatable object based on input indicative of adesired user experience.

In yet another embodiment, a system may include an amusement park ridevehicle cabin and a plurality of inflatable objects disposed in aplurality of positions within a seat of the cabin. The system mayinclude one or more valves that may direct a fluid into each of theplurality of inflatable object and a processor that may adjust one ormore positions of the one or more valves to cause the fluid to bedirected into at least one of the plurality of inflatable objects basedon data regarding one or more physical characteristics of a user of theseat of the cabin.

Various refinements of the features noted above may exist in relation tovarious aspects of the present disclosure. Further features may also beincorporated in these various aspects as well. These refinements andadditional features may exist individually or in any combination. Forinstance, various features discussed below in relation to one or more ofthe illustrated embodiments may be incorporated into any of theabove-described aspects of the present disclosure alone or in anycombination. The brief summary presented above is intended only tofamiliarize the reader with certain aspects and contexts of embodimentsof the present disclosure without limitation to the claimed subjectmatter.

DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentdisclosure will become better understood when the following detaileddescription is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in whichlike characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an inflatable pneumatic system, inaccordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a closed-loop air flow within theinflatable pneumatic system of FIG. 1, in accordance with embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of a control system that may be partof the inflatable pneumatic system of FIG. 1, in accordance withembodiments described herein;

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a parade-style inflatable object withone or more inflatable pneumatic systems incorporated therein, inaccordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a facial feature in the inflatableobject of FIG. 4, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a facial feature in the inflatableobject of FIG. 4, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 7 illustrates an example inflatable structure used to adjust thefacial feature in the inflatable object of FIG. 4 prior to beinginflated, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 8 illustrates an example inflatable structure used to adjust thefacial feature in the inflatable object of FIG. 4 after being inflated,in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 9 illustrates an example inflatable structure used to adjust aneyelid feature in the inflatable object of FIG. 4 prior to beinginflated, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 10 illustrates an example inflatable structure used to adjust aneyelid feature in the inflatable object of FIG. 4 after being inflated,in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 11 illustrates an example routing mechanism to control a motion ofan inflatable object, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 12 illustrates an example routing mechanism to control a motion ofan inflatable object, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 13 illustrates a diagram of a skeleton incorporated into aninflatable object, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 14 illustrates a diagram of the inflatable object of FIG. 13 afterthe inflatable pneumatic system has modified the inflatable object, inaccordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 15 illustrates a diagram of scaled inflatable object, in accordancewith embodiments described herein;

FIG. 16 illustrates a flow chart of a method for adjusting a position ofan inflatable object, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 17 illustrates a diagram of a first stage of an inflatable ladderstructure, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 18 illustrates a diagram of a second stage of inflatable ladderstructure, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 19 illustrates a diagram of a first stage of an inflatable stepstructure, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 20 illustrates a diagram of a second stage of inflatable stepstructure, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 21 illustrates a diagram of a first stage of an inflatable obstaclestructure, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 22 illustrates a diagram of a second stage of an inflatableobstacle structure, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 23 illustrates a diagram of a first stage of inflatable islandstructure, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 24 illustrates a diagram of a second stage of inflatable islandstructure, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 25 illustrates a diagram of a third stage of inflatable islandstructure, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 26 illustrates a diagram of a virtual reality system operating withthe inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance with embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 27 illustrates a flow chart of a method for inflating inflatableobjects in the virtual reality environment using the inflatablepneumatic system, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 28 illustrates a diagram of an inflatable maze structure, inaccordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 29 illustrates a diagram of an amusement park environment withinflatable walls, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 30 illustrates a flow chart of a method for inflating inflatableobjects in an amusement park exhibit using the inflatable pneumaticsystem, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 31 illustrates a diagram of an amusement water park environmentusing the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance with embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 32 illustrates a diagram of an amusement water park environmentusing the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance with embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 33 illustrates a diagram of an amusement water park environmentusing the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance with embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 34 illustrates a diagram of a slide feature using the inflatablepneumatic system, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 35 illustrates a diagram of a slide feature using the inflatablepneumatic system, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 36 illustrates a diagram of a turn feature in an amusement parkexhibit using the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance withembodiments described herein;

FIG. 37 illustrates a diagram of a turn feature in an amusement parkexhibit using the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance withembodiments described herein;

FIG. 38 illustrates a top view of a turn feature in an amusement parkexhibit using the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance withembodiments described herein;

FIG. 39 illustrates a diagram of a room environment with a ceilingfeature using the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance withembodiments described herein;

FIG. 40 illustrates a diagram of a room environment with a ceilingfeature using the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance withembodiments described herein;

FIG. 41 illustrates a diagram of a room environment with a floor featureusing the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance with embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 42 illustrates a diagram of a room environment with a floor featureusing the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance with embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 43 illustrates a diagram of an amusement park ride system using theinflatable pneumatic system, in accordance with embodiments describedherein;

FIG. 44 illustrates a diagram of an amusement park ride system using theinflatable pneumatic system to overcome an obstacle, in accordance withembodiments described herein;

FIG. 45 illustrates a diagram of an amusement park ride system using theinflatable pneumatic system to overcome an obstacle, in accordance withembodiments described herein;

FIG. 46 illustrates a diagram of an aquatic amusement park ride systemusing the inflatable pneumatic system to overcome an obstacle, inaccordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 47 illustrates a diagram of an aquatic amusement park ride systemusing the inflatable pneumatic system to overcome an obstacle, inaccordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 48 illustrates a diagram of an unmanned aerial vehicle system usingthe inflatable pneumatic system, in accordance with embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 49 illustrates a diagram of a number of sensors disposed in aninflatable object to coordinate operation of the inflatable pneumaticsystem, in accordance with embodiments described herein;

FIG. 50 illustrates a diagram of projector system disposed in aninflatable controlled by the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordancewith embodiments described herein; and

FIG. 51 illustrates a diagram of projector system disposed in aninflatable controlled by the inflatable pneumatic system, in accordancewith embodiments described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more specific embodiments will be described below. In an effortto provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all featuresof an actual implementation are described in the specification. Itshould be appreciated that, in the development of any such actualimplementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerousimplementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve thedevelopers' specific goals, such as compliance with system-related andbusiness-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation toanother. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a developmenteffort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be aroutine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those ofordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.

It is now recognized that various mechanical devices used in amusementpark environments may lack interactive components that may physicallycontact guests. Moreover, these mechanical devices often appear to movein a linear, or more mechanical, nature that leaves the user with theimpression of interacting with a robot, as opposed to a more life-likeobject. With this in mind, present embodiments are directed to pneumaticrobotic technology that may be employed to create mechanical devicesthat move in more fluid and life-like manners that enhance variousinteractive and visual guest experiences.

Pneumatic robotic technology, in accordance with present embodiments,may provide the ability for humans to interact with machines in a safeand interactive fashion since they achieve their shapes and movements bydirecting gas and/or liquid through a collapsible or inflatable material(e.g., housing). As used herein, pneumatic robotic technology (e.g.,pneumatic robots) may include balloon-like or inflatable objects thatreceive gas and/or liquid to form a discernable shape. In addition,pneumatic robotic technology may include actuators or gas directingmechanisms (e.g., gas-operated actuators) within the inflatable objectsthat may adjust to cause the inflatable objects to move in certaindirections or patterns. In this way, pneumatic robotic technology may beused to form various shapes, bodies, structures, and other formationsthat may have traditionally been difficult to create using metallic-typematerials. With this in mind, there are numerous ways to incorporatepneumatic robotic technology into certain environments to enhance a userexperience when interacting with exhibits that employ the pneumaticrobotic technology, when observing visual effects provided via thepneumatic robotic technology, when partaking in rides that use thepneumatic robotic technology, and the like. Additional details withregard to incorporating pneumatic robotic technology into variousinflatable objects will be discussed below with reference to FIGS. 1-51.

Inflatable Objects with Controlled Motion

By way of introduction, FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of componentsthat may make up an inflatable pneumatic system 10, in accordance withpresent embodiments, which may be used to control motion and/or theappearance of an inflatable object 12. The inflatable object 12 mayinclude any suitable material that may be shaped or molded to form adiscernable figure or object when inflated with a fluid (e.g., gas orliquid). To provide a more life-like feel to the animated figures, aspray-on silicon compound may be applied to the material. As such, theinflatable object 12 may have a finish or texture applied to theinflatable material that feels like a certain skin texture (e.g.,reptile, scaly, human, fur). By way of example, the inflatable object 12may include parade-style balloons, replica figures, structures,restraints, costumes, and other objects that will be discussed in detailbelow.

As shown in FIG. 1, the inflatable pneumatic system 10 may include apneumatic system 14 that may control the operation of various componentsdisposed within the inflatable object 12. For example, the pneumaticsystem 14 may be communicatively coupled to one or more manifolds 16,one or more valves 18, one or more meters 20, one or more sensors 22,and the like. The manifold 16 may include a chamber or intersectionbetween a number of pipes 24, conduit, or the like. The manifold 16 mayalso include mechanical components such as valves 18, mechanicalmembers, and other suitable items that may direct liquid or gas flow toone or more of a plurality of pipes 24.

To determine the present conditions within the pipes 24 or a portion ofthe pipes 24, the pneumatic system 14 may receive data from the meters20 or the sensors 22. The meter 20 may include any suitable device thatmay measure various flow characteristics such as the flow of gas, flowof liquid, the rate of flow for gas or liquid, and the like. Inaddition, the sensors 22 may provide data regarding different areaswithin the inflatable object 12, the pipes 24, and the like. As such,the sensors 22 may include devices that measure temperature, pressure,volume, light intensity, and the like. In addition, the sensors 22 mayinclude devices capable of detecting electronic, radio, infrared,optical, and other signals that may provide an indication to thepneumatic system 14 of certain conditions of the environment presentwithin or outside the inflatable object 12. For instance, the sensor 22may detect whether a person or object is within a certain proximity tothe inflatable object 12 (e.g., presence of human) and send data relatedto the detected person or object to the pneumatic system 14. Thepneumatic system 14 may, in turn, control the gas or liquid flow withinthe inflatable object 12 based on the received data.

The pneumatic system 14 may receive a liquid or a gas from a liquidsource 26 or a gas source 28, respectively. The liquid source 26 mayinclude one or more containers of different types of liquid havingdifferent densities. The gas source 28 may also include one or moretanks that have different types of gases (e.g., helium, air) havingdifferent densities. In certain embodiments, the pneumatic system 14 maycontrol motion within the inflatable object 12 by changing the gasprovided to a certain portion 30 (e.g., chamber) of the inflatableobject 12. For example, if the pneumatic system 14 is attempting to liftthe portion 30, the pneumatic system 14 may change the air beingsupplied to the portion 30 from ambient air to helium.

In addition to controlling the type of liquid or gas provided todifferent portions 30, a mechanical system 32 may mechanically move theportion 30. That is, the mechanical system 32 may include a controlleror control system that receives a command from the pneumatic system 14to move mechanical components (e.g., actuators) that may be bound to theportion 30. For example, the rigid rods may be placed around theexterior of the portion 30 and may be moved using a motor or othersuitable device. The mechanical system 32 may control the operation ofthe motor to cause the rods to move in a particular manner. In someembodiments, the pneumatic system 14 may control the operation of themechanical system 32 in conjunction with the liquid or gas provided tothe portion 30 to create different types of motion.

The portion 30 of the inflatable object 12 may be composed of a flexiblematerial such as rubber or the like that may form a certain shape wheninflated. By way of example, the portion 30 may include two-dimensionalsheets of the flexible material that may be bound together to form athree-dimensional object, such as a hand or arm and hand. The arm mayinclude an exoskeleton structure, such as a collection of rods, that mayinclude a number of motors or other suitable device that control themotion of the exoskeleton structure. To lift the arm, as discussedabove, the pneumatic system 14 may inflate the portion 30 with heliumgas via the gas source 28. The pneumatic system 14 may then use themechanical system 32 to control other motions of the arm while theportion 30 is inflated. In addition to forming the inflatable object 12with materials discussed above, in some embodiments, the inflatableobject 12 or portions 30 of the inflatable object 12 may be composed ofa flexible material that forms a molded cavity. As the material isinflated, the inflatable object 12 may take the shape of the cavity.

In some embodiments, the liquid or gas pumped into the inflatable object12 may be vented via one or more vents 34. The vents 34 may allow theliquid or gas to exit the inflatable object and be replaced by newliquid or gas from the liquid source 26 or the gas source 28. It shouldbe noted that the vent 34 may also recirculate fluid in the inflatableobject 12 to keep the inflatable object 12 inflated without beingcoupled to a liquid source 26 or a gas source 28. Recirculating air inthe inflatable object 12 may involve using fans or pumps to cause thefluid to continuously move throughout the inflatable object 12 via thepipes 24 (e.g., to generate a motion). In one example, the pipe 24,conduit, or chamber may be embedded within the interior of theinflatable object 12 to form an outline of the inflatable object 12. Assuch, when the fluid recirculates through the inflatable object 12, theinflatable object 12 may form a discernable shape without being coupledto the liquid source 26 or the gas source 28.

With the foregoing in mind, FIG. 2 illustrates an example flow diagramof fluid flow in the inflatable pneumatic system 10. As shown in FIG. 2,the liquid source 26 and/or the gas source 28 may provide liquid or gasto the inflatable object 12. The flow of fluid may then exit theinflatable object 12 via the vent 34. The vent 34 may redirect the fluidflow back to the inflatable object 12 or to a fluid storage component36. The fluid storage component 36 may serve as the liquid source 26 orthe gas source 28 or may provide the fluid to the liquid source 26 orthe gas source 28.

The pneumatic system 14 and the mechanical system 32 may, in someembodiments, be controlled or operated via a control system 40. Thecontrol system 40 may include any suitable computing system such as alaptop, a tablet computing device, a desktop computing device, or thelike. To control the operations of the pneumatic system 14, themechanical system 32, the manifold 16, the valves 18, and the othercomponents discussed above, the control system 40 may include certaincomponents to facilitate these actions. FIG. 3 is a block diagram ofexample components within the control system 40. For example, thecontrol system 40 may include a communication component 42, a processor44, a memory 46, a storage 48, input/output (I/O) ports 50, a display52, and the like. The communication component 42 may be a wireless orwired communication component that may facilitate communication betweenthe control system 40, the pneumatic system 14, the mechanical system32, the manifold 16, the valves 18, the sensors 22, the liquid source26, the gas source 28, and the like.

The processor 44 may be any suitable type of computer processor ormicroprocessor capable of executing computer-executable code. Theprocessor 44 may also include multiple processors that may perform theoperations described below.

The memory 46 and the storage 48 may be any suitable articles ofmanufacture that can serve as media to store processor-executable code,data, or the like. These articles of manufacture may representcomputer-readable media (e.g., any suitable form of memory or storage)that may store the processor-executable code used by the processor 44 toperform the presently disclosed techniques. The memory 46 and thestorage 48 may also be used to store the data, various other softwareapplications, and the like. The memory 46 and the storage 48 mayrepresent non-transitory computer-readable media (e.g., any suitableform of memory or storage) that may store the processor-executable codeused by the processor 44 to perform various techniques described herein.It should be noted that non-transitory merely indicates that the mediais tangible and not a signal.

The I/O ports 50 may be interfaces that may couple to other peripheralcomponents such as input devices (e.g., keyboard, mouse), sensors,input/output (I/O) modules, and the like. The display 52 may operate todepict visualizations associated with software or executable code beingprocessed by the processor 44. In one embodiment, the display 52 may bea touch display capable of receiving inputs from a user of the controlsystem 40. The display 52 may be any suitable type of display, such as aliquid crystal display (LCD), plasma display, or an organic lightemitting diode (OLED) display, for example.

It should be noted that the components described above with regard tothe control system 40 are exemplary components and the control system 40may include additional or fewer components as shown. Additionally, itshould be noted that the pneumatic system 14 and the mechanical system32 may also include similar components as described as part of thecontrol system 40.

With the foregoing in mind, FIG. 4 illustrates an example large-scaleballoon 70 for use in parades and other similar amusement environmentsthat may incorporate the inflatable pneumatic system 10 described aboveto control movements of the balloon or portions of the balloon. Thelarge-scale balloon 70 may include any suitable inflatable object 12that may be larger than approximately 6 feet. In certain embodiments,the large-scale balloon 70 may be attached to ropes or the like, suchthat people, vehicles, and other objects may hold the large-scaleballoon 70. In certain embodiments, the large-scale balloon 70 mayemploy inflatable pneumatic systems (IPS) 10 to cause different parts ofthe large-scale balloon 70 to move in different directions. For example,the IPS 10 may depict facial expressions for the large-scale balloon 70,move extremities of the large-scale balloon 70, and the like. By way ofexample, when making facial expressions, the large-scale balloon 70 mayhave a separate enclosed (e.g., cylindrical) fabric or material that isplaced around a portion 72 of the large-scale balloon 70 thatcorresponds to the respective character's mouth. As shown in FIG. 4, lipportions 72 of the large-scale balloon 70 may include the IPS 10, whichmay control certain motions of the lip portions 72, the size of the lipportions 72, and the like.

The large-scale balloon 70 may be inflated with a gas that may cause thelarge-scale balloon 70 to lift off of the ground. To inflate thelarge-scale balloon 70, the gas source 28 may be coupled to an apertureof the large-scale balloon 70 and filled with the gas. In the samemanner, various portions of the large-scale balloon 70 may be inflatedusing the gas source 28, such that after the material is inflated, theinflated material forms an oral expression, such as a smile, a frown, orthe like. Depending on the amount of inflation, different expressionsmay be provided.

In another example, the IPS 10 or an adjustment inflatable 73 of the IPS10 may be positioned in eyebrow portions 74 and/or eyeball portions 76of the large-scale balloon 70. By way of example, FIGS. 5 and 6illustrate embodiments in which the eyebrow portion 74 may move. Asshown in FIG. 5, the eyebrow portion 74 may include the adjustmentinflatable 73 (a portion of the inflatable pneumatic system 10), whichmay control the size and/or position of the eyebrow portion 74. Forexample, the inflatable pneumatic system 10 may deflate the adjustmentinflatable 73, as shown in step A of FIG. 5, and inflate the adjustmentinflatable 73 (example of the inflatable object 12), as shown in step Bof FIG. 5, to control the size of the eyebrow portion 74.

In another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6, part of the eyebrowportion 74 may be coupled to a free end 77 of the adjustment inflatable73 such that inflation and deflation of the adjustment inflatable 73causes the eyebrow portion 74 (which may be inflated and remain at afixed inflation level) to raise or lower with respect to a portion 79 ofthe adjustment inflatable 73 that is connected to the main body of thelarge-scale balloon 70. Thus, the eyebrow portion 74 may raise (Step Bof FIG. 6) and lower (Step A of FIG. 6) with respect to the eyeballportion 76 to change expressions. This may be facilitated by including agroove or channel that maintains the adjustment inflatable 73 within afixed area and provides a path for expansion and contraction.

In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment inflatable 73 includes aninflatable cylinder and it may be positioned in a correspondingly shapedgroove that maintains an alignment of the adjustment inflatable 73 witha direction of motion for the eyebrow portion 74 as the cylinder isfilled with fluid and expands along the groove. The eyebrow portion 74may be connected to the large-scale balloon 70 with elastic connectors(e.g., elastic bands), elongate strands (e.g., ribbons or strings),guide/groove mechanisms 80, or the like that allow for a range of motionbut also keep the eyebrow portion 74 within a certain area. In someembodiments, the IPS 10 may include multiple adjustment inflatables 73(such as the cylinder described above) that can be inflated and/ordeflated in various combinations to provide different expressions (e.g.,by causing one end of the eyebrow portion 74 to go up and another toremain steady or go down).

By way of example, FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate how the eyebrow portion 74of FIGS. 5 and 6 may move. As shown in FIG. 7, the IPS 10 may include anumber of exoskeleton sections 82 surrounding the adjustment inflatable73. Upper exoskeleton sections 82 may rest on lower sections 82 when theadjustment inflatable 73 disposed inside is deflated. The exoskeletonsections 82 may operate to maintain a certain shape, provide guidance,provide structural support, and the like. The liquid source 26 or thegas source 28 may be fluidly coupled to an end of the adjustmentinflatable 73. As the adjustment inflatable 73 expands, the sections 82may be forced to extend away from each other but maintain contact viacouplings 85 (e.g., guide and groove connections) between each adjacentsection 82.

It should be noted that the structures described above and related tochanging expressions of the large-scale balloon 70 are merely providedas examples, and other suitable embodiments for adjustment usinginflatable objects may also be employed. It should also be noted that,in some embodiments, components (e.g., meters, valves, sensors)described as part of the IPS 10 in FIG. 1 may also be incorporated intoany of the inflatable systems described herein to control the flow ofthe fluid and associated mechanical components that may be integratedinto the IPS 10.

With the foregoing in mind, FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate an example systemfor closing an eyelid portion 92 of the eyeball portion 76. As shown inFIG. 9, the eyelid portion 92 may be positioned above the eyeballportion 76. The eyelid portion 92 may be made up of the inflatablematerial and may be retracted from covering the eyeball portion 76. Inone embodiment, a stretchable band 94 may pull the eyelid portion 92,such that the eyelid portion 92 is retracted when the stretchable band94 has no tension. After a fluid is provided to the eyelid portion 92via the liquid source 26 or the gas source 28, the stretchable band 94may expand or stretch and the eyelid portion 92 may inflate to cover theeyeball portion 76.

In addition, fluid may be directed in a certain direction within aportion of the large-scale balloon 70 that corresponds to an extremity(e.g., arm, leg) of a represented character. In one example, fluid maybe distributed in alternate directions to cause the portion of thelarge-scale balloon 70 to continuously move in opposing directions tosimulate, for example, a waving or kicking motion. A variety of gasdeflection mechanisms may be placed within the balloon or within thematerial used to create the structure or form of the pneumatic robot tocause the balloon to move in a controlled manner. As a result, the userexperience in observing the large-scale balloon 70 is enhanced. In someembodiments, the movements of the balloon may be controlled based onfeedback from the user, as detected via the sensors 22, to furtherenhance the user experience.

With this in mind and referring back to FIG. 4, the inflatable pneumaticsystem 10 may also be employed to control a motion of an extremityportion 78 of the large-scale balloon 70. In certain embodiments, atether line 81 may be coupled to the large-scale balloon 70 via theextremity portion 78. The tether line 81 may provide fluids via theliquid source 26, the gas source 28, and the like. As the fluid isprovided into the extremity portion 78, the movement of the extremityportion 78 may be controlled by adjusting the type of fluid (e.g.,density) provided to the extremity portion 78, controlling mechanicalcomponents within the extremity portion 78, and the like.

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate one example embodiment in which the movementof the extremity portion 78 may be controlled. As shown in FIG. 11, theextremity portion 78 may include a channel 102 that may direct fluidflow to the vent 34. The direction of the fluid flow may be adjusted viathe mechanical system 32. In one embodiment, two moveable baffles 104and 106 may be employed to control the motion of the extremity portion78. That is, to cause the extremity portion 78 to move in a firstdirection 108, the first moveable baffle 104 may be positioned to allowthe fluid to traverse in a first direction 108, as illustrated in FIG.11. In addition, the second moveable baffle 106 may be positioned toblock the fluid flow from reaching a portion of the channel 102. Thefluid flow may the exit the extremity portion 78 via the vent 34.

Referring now to FIG. 12, to cause the extremity portion 78 to move in adifferent direction, the first moveable baffle 104 may be positioned toblock the fluid flow into the first direction 108 and the secondmoveable baffle 106 may be positioned to allow the fluid flow into asecond direction 110. The fluid flow may thus exit via the vent 34. Theplacement of the vents 34 and the directions of the fluid flow may causethe extremity portion 78 to move in the direction of the fluid flow.

In some embodiments, the type of fluid may be changed to cause theextremity portion 78 to move. For example, a lower density gas may beprovided to one portion of the channel 102 while another portion of thechannel 102 may be provided with a higher density gas. As such, theportion of the channel 102 that has the lower density gas may lift,thereby causing the extremity portion 78 to move in the direction ofwhere the lower density gas is located.

In addition to the large-scale balloon 70, the IPS 10 may beincorporated into costumes and other objects that may be worn by a humanuser. For instance, the IPS 10 may be integrated into animated costumesworn by people. To enhance the visual presentation of the costume, theIPS 10 may cause the costume to grow, change shapes, or shrink certainparts of the costume while the person is wearing the costume.

Keeping this in mind, FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate a costume 120 that mayincorporate the IPS 10 to cause the costume 120 to change shapes.Referring to FIG. 13 first, the costume 120 may include a skeletalstructure 122 that may be integrated with the costume 120 to support theweight of the costume 120. The skeletal structure 122 (which may be anexoskeleton or endoskeleton) may be attached to the lining or materialof the costume 120. In addition, the skeletal structure 122 may coupleto a human user in one or more locations to allow the human user tocontrol the motion of the costume 120.

In certain embodiments, the costume 120 may be made of an inflatablematerial or a material that may store or keep a fluid, such as theinflatable object 12. In this instance, a human user may be provided abreathing tube or the like to breath inside the enclosed costume 120.

To change the shape of the costume 120, the IPS 10 may push fluid into aportion 124 of the costume 120. The portion 124 may be designed to restin a particular position or shape when deflated and take another shapewhen inflated. By way of example, the portion 124 may form wings wheninflated, as depicted in FIG. 14. In some embodiments, the portion 124may include a separate skeletal structure 126 that may be coupled to themechanical system 32 discussed above. As such, the skeletal structure126 may be moved in a mechanical fashion by controlling motors and thelike that are coupled to the separate skeletal structure 126, while theportion 124 is inflated.

In addition to providing pneumatic technology in large-scale balloons,similar technology may be incorporated into smaller-scale balloons thatmay be provided as souvenirs in an amusement park or the like. Thesmaller-scale balloons may include a fluid supply and pump (e.g.,electric motor, fan) along with gas directing mechanisms, such as themoveable baffles described above, that cause the balloon to move in acertain direction. In one embodiment, the control system 40 may beemployed by the user of the smaller scale balloon to control themovements of the gas directing mechanisms and the pump to control themovements of the balloon.

By way of example, FIG. 15 illustrates a small-scale balloon 140 thatmay include the IPS 10 to control the inflation and movement of thesmall-scale balloon 140. In certain embodiments, the small-scale balloonmay be implemented using the same techniques and systems described abovefor the large-scale balloon 70. However, the small-scale balloon 140 mayinclude a small fan 142 (instead of large scale pumps, fans or otherfluid movers) to draw air into the small-scale balloon 140 to inflatethe small-scale balloon 140. In some embodiments, the small-scaleballoon 140 may be coupled to a separate fluid source that may include agas or liquid provided to the small-scale balloon 140 during operation.For example, a bladder filled with water may be compressed to providefluid flow. In embodiments using a fan, gas may also exit thesmall-scale balloon 140 to provide cooling for a user.

The IPS 10 may control the movement or motion of the small-scale balloon140 based on inputs received via the control system 40, which mayinclude a smart phone or another suitable device. Additionally, IPS 10may control the motion of the small-scale balloon 140 based on inputsreceived via the sensors 22. For instance, an amusement park may includevarious transmitters that may provide signals detectable by the sensors22, such that the signal may cause the IPS 10 to alter positions ormotions of the small-scale balloon 140.

With the foregoing in mind, FIG. 16 illustrates a flow chart of a method160 for controlling the motions of the large-scale balloon 70, thesmall-scale balloon 140, or other suitable inflatable object 12 inaccordance with the embodiments described herein. Although the followingdescription of the method 160 is detailed as being performed by thecontrol system 40, it should be noted that any suitable computing systemmay perform the method 160 described below. Moreover, it should be notedthat although the method 160 is described below in a particular order,the method 160 may be performed in any suitable order.

Referring now to FIG. 16, at block 162, the control system 40 mayreceive a command to adjust a position or motion of the inflatableobject 12. The received command may correspond to a user input thatspecifies a particular motion or desired position for the inflatableobject 12 or a portion of the inflatable object 12. In some embodiments,the command may be transmitted from other computing systems ortransmitters that are dispersed at different geographical locations,landmarks, and the like. The transmitters may include radio frequencytransmitters and other wireless signal transmitters that may send asignal containing the command therein.

In some embodiments, the command may be generated by the control system40 based on a proximity to a particular location, an image acquired viathe control system 40, or the like. That is, in an amusement parkenvironment, the control system 40 may detect that the user is locatednear a particular landmark and, in response to being located within acertain proximity to the landmark, the control system 40 may generate acommand to cause the inflatable object 12 to adjust its motion orpositions.

In yet another embodiment, the command may be generated by the controlsystem 40 in response to detecting audio inputs or signals. Forinstance, the user may speak a phrase to the control system 40, whichmay then generate a command based on the detected phrase. In the samemanner, the command may be generated based on certain inputs detectedvia a video input. That is, the control system 40 may detect facialfeatures or expressions via video of a user and generate a command basedon the detected facial features or expressions. Indeed, in someembodiments, motion of a user that is detected via the control system 40may be mimicked by aspects of the manipulated inflatable (e.g., thesmall-scale balloon 140).

With the foregoing in mind, at block 164, the control system 40 mayreceive data from the sensors 22, the meters 20, and the like. The datafrom the sensors 22 may include audio data, visual data, light intensity(e.g., infrared) data, and the like. The data from the meters 20 mayinclude fluid pressure data, fluid temperature data, fluid velocitydata, and the like. In some embodiments, the sensors 22 may be disposedat different locations within the inflatable object 12 and thus mayreceive data concerning different positions with respect to theinflatable object 12.

The data from the sensors 22 may also include a level or amount of fluidavailable in the liquid source 26 or the gas source 28. In addition, thesensors 22 disposed on the liquid source 26 or the gas source 28 mayinclude any suitable measurement related to the operation of the liquidsource 26 or the gas source 28. The data from the sensors 22 and themeters 20 may provide information related to the current properties ofthe inflatable object 12. For example, the information may detailwhether the inflatable object 12 is inflated, has sufficient pressure,is leaking, is moving in a desired manner, and the like.

At block 166, the control system 40 may determine the present positionsof the manifold 16, the valves 18, and the like. The positions of themanifold 16 and the valves 18 may provide an indication with regard tohow the inflatable object 12 is currently positioned. In addition to thepositions of the manifold 16 and the valves 18, at block 168, thecontrol system 40 may receive data from the mechanical system 32regarding the current operational parameters of the mechanical system32. The current operation parameters may include the current positionsof various motors, baffles, levers, and other mechanical components thatmay be integrated in the inflatable object 12.

Based on the positions of the manifold 16 and the valves 18, as well asthe current operational parameters of the mechanical system 32, thecontrol system 40 may determine the fluid flow within the inflatableobject 12. In addition, the control system 40 may determine a currentshape or position of the inflatable object 12. At block 170, the controlsystem 40 may then adjust the positions of the manifold 16, the valves18, the mechanical system 32, or the like based on the command receivedat block 162 and the other data received at blocks 164, 166, and 168.That is, the command may correspond to causing a portion of theinflatable object 12 to inflate, to move, display a particular facialexpression, retract, or the like. Based on the current properties of theinflatable object 12, as determined via the data received at blocks 164,166, and 168 and the desired properties of the inflatable object 12 withrespect to the command, the control system 40 may determine adjustmentsto the manifold 16, the valves 18, the mechanical system 32, or thelike.

After determining the adjustments to the manifold 16, the valves 18, orthe mechanical system 32, the control system 40 may send instructions tocontrollers or control systems coupled to the manifold 16, the valves18, the mechanical system 32, or the like. The instructions may causethe controllers or the control systems to adjust the positions of themanifold 16, the valves 18, or the mechanical system 32 to adjust itscurrent settings to achieve a desired movement or shape that correspondsto the command received at block 162.

In addition to adjusting the positions of the manifold 16, the valves18, or the mechanical system 32, at block 172, the control system 40 mayadjust the fluid flow provided via the liquid source 26 or the gassource 28 based on the command and the data received at blocks 162, 164,and 166. For example, if the command received at block 162 requests thata portion of the inflatable object 12 is lifted, the control system 40may send a command to a controller or control system that controls thegas source 28 to provide a gas with a lower density than currentlypresent in the portion of the inflatable object 12 to cause the portionto rise or actuate an inflatable portion that expands or contracts tocause the desired movement.

In any case, the control system 40 may use a variety of controlmechanisms (e.g., liquid source 26, gas source 28, valves 18, manifold16, mechanical system 32) to coordinate the shape or positions of theinflatable object 12. A combination of these control mechanisms mayallow the control system 40 to provide more fluid or life-like movementand expressions exhibited by the inflatable object 12. Moreover, byincorporating the inflatable pneumatic system 10 into the inflatableobject 12, human guests may interact and touch the inflatable object 12.

Although the foregoing discussion related to the inflatable object 12has been discussed with respect to gas, it should be noted that each ofthe embodiments described herein may also be employed with liquidfluids. That is, the IPS 10 may be placed in an aquatic environment,which may be viewed through a glass material or at an elevation abovethe aquatic environment. In the aquatic environment, the inflatableobject 12 of may be filled with a liquid to form various shapes. Forinstance, the material that makes up the inflatable object 12 may restat the surface of the aquatic environment until a liquid (e.g., water)is pumped into the material, thereby generating a structure, object, orthe like based on the shape of the material.

With this in mind, it should be understood that the embodimentsdescribed above may be implemented using liquids that are pumped intothe inflatable object 12 via the liquid source 26. The liquid source 26may integrate with a hydraulic system to cause the inflatable object 12to move. In addition, different types of liquids with differentdensities may be provided to different portions of the inflatable object12. In some embodiments, the liquids may include water, water glycol,oil, doped water, or any other suitable liquid. In some embodiments, acombination of gas filled inflatable objects and liquid filledinflatable objects may also be used to control motion of a largerinflatable object or the like.

Inflatable Structural Objects in Amusement Park Environments

In addition to controlling the motion or position of inflatable objects12, the IPS 10 may be incorporated into various amusement park exhibitsto create structures that may be used to enhance a user's experiencetraversing an amusement park, participating in an amusement ride, andthe like. For example, a structure may be formed by the IPS 10 to assista user to gain access to an exhibit or a part of a ride. For instance,the inflatable object 12 may include a material or section that, wheninflated, may form a ladder that enables a user to gain access to acertain portion of an exhibit or part of a ride that exists at someheight. The inflatable ladder may be further inflated or deflated toaccess higher or lower heights, respectively.

Another example of incorporating the IPS 10 into an amusement parkenvironment includes incorporation into an aquatic environment.Specifically, present embodiments may include the inflatable object 12positioned within the water or at the surface of a pool. As such, theinflatable object 12 may be inflated to create an island structure orthe like that guests may stand atop of during certain time intervals. Inaddition, cylindrical tubes may be inflated to project water out to apool or wet play area for guests.

In addition, the inflatable object 12 may be inflated during the courseof a ride or an exhibit to create obstacles for the ride or user duringthe user experience. In the same way, the inflatable object 12 maydeflate, such that obstacles are removed during the course of a ride orexhibit. The inflatable object 12 may also inflate and deflate todifferent pressure levels to form an object having a hard surface to onehaving varying degrees of a soft or amorphous surface. As mentionedabove with regard to the balloons, different portions of the inflatablematerial may be inflated or gas deflecting mechanisms may be controlledwhile gas is pumped into the material to make the resulting formationmove, change shapes, and the like.

With the foregoing in mind, FIGS. 17-29 illustrate various embodimentsin which the IPS 10 may be incorporated into various types of exhibitsto provide different features and experiences for guests at an amusementpark or the like. It should be noted that each of the embodimentsdescribed with respect to FIGS. 17-29 may include components of the IPS10 detailed above. In addition, the embodiments described below may becombined with other embodiments described herein and may be employed toenhance a user's experience in an amusement park, during an amusementpark ride, or the like.

Referring now to FIGS. 17 and 18, an inflatable ladder structure 200 isillustrated. More specifically, FIG. 17 illustrates cavities 202 and 204that may embedded within the inflatable object 12. In certainembodiments, each cavity 202 may be supported by binding or certainmechanical frames (e.g., skeletal components) that may allow each cavity202 and 204 to remain hollow when the inflatable object 12 is inflated.

The inflatable ladder structure 200 may include an incline 206 that maymake it difficult for an individual to traverse the incline 206 or gainaccess to a top level 208. In certain embodiments, an inflatable tube210 may be inflated to make the incline 206 function as a slide orprevent guests from easily reaching the top level 208. However, uponreceiving a certain command or detecting an expected motion or action,the control system 40 (or other suitable device) may initiate a processto retract the inflatable tube 210 into the cavity 204. That is, thecontrol system 40 may receive a signal or detect a presence of a guestvia the sensors 22 and cause the inflatable tube 210 to deflate inresponse to receiving an expected signal or detecting an expectedpresence. For instance, a guest may recite an audible command, move in aparticular manner, move an electronic device in a specific motion, orthe like. The sensors 22 may detect these activities and send anindication of the detected activities to the control system 40, whichmay then coordinate the inflation or deflation of the inflatable tube210, which may allow access to a feature (e.g., ladder) underneath.

In some embodiments, when deflating the inflatable tube 210, the controlsystem 40 may send a signal to a pump or other device to pull air orliquid from the inflatable tube 210. The inflatable tube 210 may retractinto the cavity 204 (e.g., via suction or mechanical actuation of asupport) and allow another inflatable structure to be inflated. To causethe inflatable tube 210 to retract into the cavity 204, the controlsystem 40 may control a mechanical actuator that pulls the inflatabletube 210 into the cavity 204.

In addition, referring to FIG. 18, the control system 40 may cause theliquid source 26 or the gas source 28 to inflate an inflatable ladder212, which may be previously stored in the cavity 202. The inflatableladder 212 may include steps or ledges that a guest may climb totraverse the incline 206 and reach the top level 208. In someembodiments, the inflatable ladder 212 may be separated into a number ofportions that may each be individually inflated. In this case, thedifficulty of traversing the incline 206 may be adjusted based on thenumber of portions of the inflatable ladder 212 that are inflated.

In addition to ladder structures, steps may also be inflated and provideaccess to different parts of an amusement park exhibit. For instance,FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate an inflatable step structure 220 in which astep is inflated to assist a guest to reach the top level 208. Referringfirst to FIG. 19, the inflatable step structure 220 may include a cavity222 that may store an inflatable step 224. In some embodiments, a lidstructure 226 may latch or couple to a coupling feature 228 attached tothe inflatable object 12 and block access to the cavity 222.

The top level 208 may be positioned at a height above a lower level 229,such that it may be beneficial or easier to access the top level 208with the inflatable step 224 positioned at a height between the lowerlevel 229 and the top level 208. With this in mind, the control system40 or any other suitable device may inflate the inflatable step 224 inresponse to receiving a signal, a command, a detected presence, or thelike.

When inflating the inflatable step 224, the step may push against thelid structure 226, such that the lid structure 226 rotates 0 to 180degrees to allow the inflatable step 224 to inflate and provide a stepto access the top level 208. In some embodiments, the lid structure 226may be coupled to a corner of the inflatable step 224 such that itremains vertical when the inflatable step 224 is inflated. It should benoted that the lid structure 226 may also be removed from the inflatablestep structure 220 and, instead, the cavity 222 may be visible when theinflatable step 224 is deflated. As such, the cavity 222 may provide anadditional obstacle to prevent a guest from reaching the top level 208.

In addition to providing assistance to guests, the IPS 10 may be used toproduce obstacles that block access to different areas of the amusementpark or increase a difficulty for a guest in gaining access to a certainarea of an amusement park attraction. With this in mind, FIGS. 21 and 22illustrate an example obstacle structure 230 that may be inflated ordeflated based on input received via the sensors 22, a command receivedvia the control system 40, or other inflation triggers discussed above.

Referring to FIG. 21, an inflatable obstacle 232 may protrude from theinflatable object 12 to prevent a guest from accessing a portion or areawithin the amusement park. In some embodiments, the inflatable obstacle232 may be shaped as a boulder or rock that may be difficult to traverseor climb. That is, the inflatable obstacle 232 may have an amorphous ornon-uniform shape that is difficult for a guest to climb over.

The obstacle structure 230 may also include cavities 234 and 236. Thecavity 234 may store the inflatable obstacle 232 when it is deflated. Tomaintain a walkway above the cavity 234, an inflatable lid 238, as shownin FIG. 22, may be inflated to cover the cavity 234. In one embodiment,the inflatable lid 238 may be retracted and stored in the cavity 236when the inflatable obstacle 232 is present. In some embodiments, solidor rigid structures (e.g., a solid lid) may be maneuvered into desiredlocations by inflatable actuators.

In aquatic environments, inflatable objects 12 disposed in water may beinflated with some gas or pumped with a liquid that may cause theinflatable objects 12 to float above the water. With this in mind, FIGS.23, 24, and 25 illustrate an inflatable aquatic system 250 that mayinclude different types of inflatable objects such as an inflatableisland structure 252, an inflatable bridge structure 254, and the like.Referring first to FIG. 23, the inflatable island structure 252 and theinflatable bridge structure 254 may be submerged in a liquid 258 (e.g.,water). As such, in certain embodiments, the inflatable island structure252 and the inflatable bridge structure 254 may be deflated or void offluid, such that the liquid 258 causes the inflatable island structure252 and the inflatable bridge structure 254 to be submerged. In someembodiments, the inflatable island structure 252 and the inflatablebridge structure 254 may be filled with a liquid that has a higherdensity than the liquid 258, thereby causing the inflatable islandstructure 252 and the inflatable bridge structure 254 to sink, asdepicted in FIG. 23. However, in other embodiments, the inflatableisland structure 252 and the inflatable bridge structure 254 may bedeflated, such that they collapse on or in the liquid 258.

When inflating the inflatable island structure 252, the control system40 or the like may cause the fluid source (e.g., liquid source 26, gassource 28) to produce a suitable fluid (e.g., liquid, gas) to fill theinflatable island structure 252 via the valve 18 or the like. To keepthe inflatable island structure 252 stable and prevent it from moving inthe liquid 258, the inflatable island structure 252 may include acoupling feature 260 (e.g., hook) that may be secured to a post 262 viaa wire 264, chain, or the like.

After the inflatable island structure 252 is filled with a fluid that islighter than the surrounding liquid 258, the inflatable island structure252 may surface above the liquid 258. In some embodiments, theinflatable island structure 252 may be filled such that it maintains acertain pressure that supports the weight of multiple guests. That is,guests may walk on the inflatable island structure 252. In addition, theinflatable island structure 252 may include additional inflatableobjects 12, such as an inflatable tree 266 or other inflatablevegetation objects, to enhance the appearance of the inflatable islandstructure 252.

The inflatable aquatic system 250 may also include inflatable buildingor road structures, such as the inflatable bridge structure 254. In someembodiments, the inflatable bridge structure 254 may provide access tothe inflatable island structure 252. That is, users may traverse theinflatable bridge structure 254, which may retain sufficient pressure tosupport the weight of multiple guests.

It should be noted that liquid or gas may also be provided to thevarious types of inflatable objects 12 described herein. That is, theliquid 258 may include a certain type of liquid having one densityvalue, and the inflatable objects 12 may be filled with another type ofliquid or gas that has a lighter density than the liquid 258. As aresult, the inflatable objects 12 may float above the liquid 258. Theliquid containers that act as inflatable objects 12 may be composed of alatex material sufficient to act as a bladder to hold the appropriateamount of liquid.

Like the inflatable objects 12 described in FIGS. 17-22, the inflatableisland structure 252 may be controlled via a control system 40 oranother suitable component. As such, data from the sensors 22, meters20, and the like may be used to implement the method 160 to control theinflation and deflation or fill and drainage of the inflatable objects12 described in each of the embodiments presented herein.

In addition to controlling environmental aspects of an amusement park,the IPS 10 may be incorporated into virtual reality or augmented realityenvironments to simulate a physical environment for a simulated orvirtual object. For instance, in virtual reality-based systems theinflatable material may be inflated to different shapes to providehaptic feedback to provide the sense of touch while using the virtualreality system. That is, as the user sees a virtual object in thevirtual reality system, the IPS 10 may inflate different inflatableobjects 12 to form shapes that are presented in the virtual realityenvironment.

Keeping this in mind, FIG. 26 illustrates a virtual reality environment280 that may involve the IPS 10 to create physical representations ofitems that may be presented via a virtual reality system 282. Thevirtual reality system 282 may include similar components as describedwith respect to the control system 40 of FIG. 2. Generally, the virtualreality system 282 may include a display 52 that may be positionedaround a user's eyes, such that a view of the actual environmentsurrounding the user's eyes is limited. The display 52 may then presenta virtual world or environment that may change as the user traverses ormoves through a controlled (e.g., room) environment.

To enhance the user experience in traversing this virtual world, the IPS10 may inflate various inflatable objects 12 in the controlledenvironment to simulate an actual object that corresponds to an objectpresented in the display 52. For example, the IPS 10 may be incorporatedinto a room or some suitable environment in which a user may traversethrough via walking, train ride, automobile ride, or the like. As theuser encounters various virtual objects via the display 52 of thevirtual reality system 282, the IPS 10 may inflate an inflatable object12 that corresponds to the virtual objects depicted in the display 52.By way of example, if the display 52 presents a virtual tree, the IPS 10may inflate an inflatable tree object 284. In the same manner, if thedisplay 52 presents a virtual cat, the IPS 10 may inflate an inflatablecat object 286. In certain embodiments, the IPS 10 may coordinate theinflation of each object based on the location of the user and the timein which the display 52 presents the corresponding virtual object. Inthis way, the user may physically touch an inflatable object 12 that mayphysically match the virtual object presented in the display 52. Thismay conserve space within the environment by activating and deactivatingprops within the same area.

In some embodiments, the virtual reality system 282 may receive datafrom the sensors 22 that may be disposed on the inflatable objects 12 toensure that the visualized virtual objects match the positions andmotions of the actual inflatable objects 12. As such, the inflatableobjects 12 in the virtual reality environment 280 may include variousfeatures described above to cause the objects to move in a controlledmanner. The controlled motion may be mimicked by the virtual realitysystem 282, such that the user may simultaneously feel the movement ofthe inflatable objects 12.

To further enhance the user experience in the virtual realityenvironment 280, the inflatable objects 12 may be textured and includedifferent layers of material to mimic the represented object. Forinstance, the inflatable cat object 286 may include a fur-like materialdisposed on the material that forms the inflatable object 12, such thatthe inflatable cat object 286 physically feels like a cat.

With the foregoing in mind, FIG. 27 illustrates a method 300 foradjusting the virtual reality environment 280 using inflatable objects12. By way of example, the following description of the method 300 willbe discussed as being performed by the control system 40, but it shouldbe understood that any suitable computing system may perform the method300 described herein.

Referring now to FIG. 27, at block 302, the control system 40 mayreceive visual data related to virtual objects that are presently beingdisplayed by the virtual reality system 282. The visual data received atblock 302 may be transmitted to the control system 40 via acommunication link between the control system 40 and the virtual realitysystem 282. In some embodiments, pointers or metadata regarding thevisual data may be transmitted to the control system 40 to indicatewhere the user is positioned in the virtual environment. By usingpointers, the control system 40 may preserve bandwidth and avoidreceiving the visual data, which may be data intensive.

At block 304, the control system 40 may identify an inflatable object 12that may be present in the virtual reality environment 280 based on thevisual data. That is, the control system 40 may identify the inflatableobject 12 that corresponds to the virtual object presented in thevirtual world based on the visual data, the pointers, and the like.

In addition to the visual data, the control system 40 may, at block 306,receive location data that indicates the user's position in the virtualreality environment 280 or the user's position with respect to theinflatable objects. Based on the location of the user, the controlsystem 40 may determine when to inflate the identified inflatable object12 to ensure that the inflatable object 12 is accessible to the userwhen the corresponding virtual object appears to be accessible accordingto the virtual reality system 282. For example, the control system 40may inflate the inflatable object 12 when the user is detected within athreshold distance from the respective inflatable object 12.

At block 308, the control system 40 may send a command to the valve 18to inflate the identified inflatable object via the liquid source 26 orthe gas source 28 based on the location of the user. In certainembodiments, the virtual reality system 282 may receive feedback datafrom sensors 22 in the virtual reality environment 280 to presentvirtual objects at certain distances away from the user's virtualposition to match the actual distance that the user is with respect tothe corresponding inflatable objects 12. As a result, the user'sexperience in the virtual reality system 282 is enhanced by the physicalobjects that he is able to interact with. Objects, such as theinflatable tree object 284, may include electronic tags (e.g., radiofrequency identification tags (RFIDs)) on certain positions tofacilitate identifying location data and subsequent manipulation of theobject and/or image data to create overlap.

In some embodiments, the virtual reality environment 280 may portray amaze or labyrinth visualization that the user is to navigate through.For example, the IPS 10 may be incorporated into a funhouse or mazeexhibit that may create or remove walls within the exhibit by inflatingor deflating different inflatable objects 12. In another embodiment, amoonwalk may have different features that may be jumped upon whendifferent portions of the inflatable material are inflated. Forinstance, the ceiling may become higher or lower by deflating orinflating different portions of the inflatable object 12 positionedadjacent to the ceiling of the moonwalk. In one embodiment, the virtualreality environment may include a maze exhibit that has walls that mayform and disappear dynamically during the course of traversing the maze,interacting with various objects within the maze, and the like.

By way of example, FIG. 28 illustrates an inflatable maze structure 320in which a guest of an amusement park may traverse. In some embodiments,the inflatable maze structure 320 may include a number of inflatablewalls 322. The inflatable walls 322 may be coupled to the liquid source26 or the gas source 28 via the valves 18 discussed above. As gueststraverse the inflatable maze structure 320, the control system 40 or thelike may receive an input or sensor data via the sensors 22 to cause thecontrol system 40 to deflate one or more of the inflatable walls 322.For example, the guest traversing the inflatable maze structure 320 mayreach a point 324 where the control system 40 expects to receive aninput signal or detect a motion of the user to cause the control system40 to deflate an inflatable wall 326. In certain embodiments, theinflatable wall 326 may provide an exit or way out of the inflatablemaze structure 320.

In addition to providing different exit points in the inflatable mazestructure 320, the control system 40 may control the pattern or designof the inflatable maze structure 320 by inflating and deflatingdifferent inflatable walls 322. In this way, the inflatable mazestructure 320 may provide a new experience and involve a new solutioneach time a user traverses the same maze exhibit.

In certain embodiments, the inflatable maze structure 320 may beintegrated with the virtual reality system 282 described above. That is,in the same manner that the control system 40 inflated inflatableobjects 12 while the user traversed the virtual reality environment 280,the control system 40 and the virtual reality system 282 may coordinatethe inflation of inflatable objects 12 with the presentation ofcorresponding virtual walls depicted via the virtual reality system 282.As such, the inflatable maze structure 320 may enhance the user'sexperience in a virtual maze presented by the virtual reality system282.

In addition to mazes, inflatable walls 322 may be inflated when guestsare detected as approaching restricted areas. For instance, to providecertain views, a park or exhibit may provide viewing angles for guestswithout any visual obstructions to view certain park features, exhibits,shows, or the like. However, upon detecting of a guest approaching orentering a restricted area, the control system 40 may inflate theinflatable walls 322 to prevent the guest from gaining access to therestricted area.

By way of example, FIG. 29 illustrates an amusement park environment 340with different areas. In some embodiments, the inflatable walls 322 maybe disposed under walkways or adjacent to entrances to the differentareas. If the control system 40 receives a command or signal requestingthat access to a particular area of the amusement park environment 340be restricted, the control system 40 may inflate the inflatable walls322 to deny guests access to the different areas. In this way, thecontrol system 40 may coordinate the removal of guests from theamusement park environment 340, while preventing the guests fromentering restricted areas.

In the same manner, inflatable doors and entryways may be inflated anddeflated via the control system to provide access and deny access todifferent parts of an amusement park ride or exhibit. The inflatabledoors, entryways, and walls may be tailored with the inflatable materialto display various contours and features that change over time when theinflatable material is inflated or deflated, when gas directingmechanisms within the inflatable material are adjusted, and the like. Inone embodiment, in an exhibit or during a ride, the inflatable door mayappear (e.g., inflate from ground or side) and disappear (e.g., deflate)to provide access to a different part of the exhibit or ride. In anotherembodiment, the doors or other obstacles may curl away from a path asthe user traverses the path.

In certain situations, organic shapes may be inflated within theamusement park environment 340 to direct the guests to exits. Inaddition, inflatable objects 12 may be used to generate signs or text toindicate a direction for guests to travel in the amusement parkenvironment 340. In one embodiment, the inflatable objects 12 may beused to create arrow shapes to indicate a direction to travel. Theinflatable objects 12 may also move a hand or arm feature of a characterto indicate a direction to travel within the amusement park environment340.

In addition, some exhibits within the amusement park environment mayinclude scenery or background effects that change based on differentarrangements of inflatable objects 12 that are inflated. That is,certain inflatable objects 12 used to represent certain objects for ascene on a stage may project from the wall or floor of an exhibit for aportion of a show, while other scene objects may project from the wallor floor during a second portion of a show. For example, in certainexhibits or a scene on a stage, an inflatable object may correspond to atree-like figure that includes branches made up of inflatable tubes. Insome embodiments, the tree-like figures may include gas directingmechanisms (e.g., valves, mechanical system) that cause the branches toembrace guests, physically touch guests, and move in various positionsbased on detected positions and/or motions of guests. In the samemanner, other types of figures may be erected using the IPS 10 describedherein.

Some exhibits may include scenery or background effects that changebased on different arrangements of inflatable materials that areinflated. That is, certain scene objects may project from the wall orfloor of an exhibit for a portion of a show, while other scene objectsmay project from the wall or floor during a second portion of the show.

A certain exhibit may include a tree-like figure that includes branchesmade up of inflatable tubes that include gas directing mechanisms thatcause the branches to embrace guests, push guests, and move in variouspositions based on detected positions and/or motions of guests. In thesame manner, other types of figures may be erected using the pneumaticrobots described herein.

Customizing Amusement Park Attractions Using Inflatable Objects

As discussed above, the IPS 10 may be employed in an amusement parkenvironment to enhance a user's experience while participating in anamusement park attraction (e.g., ride). In some embodiments, the IPS 10may be integrated into an amusement park ride or exhibit to customize auser's experience based on a desired speed, a user's height, a user'sweight, a desired level of force during the ride, and the like. Forexample, a particular amusement ride (e.g., a slide) may be tailored foran individual rider based on desired speeds of the user. That is, theride may adjust for each individual rider to achieve a faster speed or aslower speed based on a request of the user. Specifically, in operation,the IPS 10 may increase or decrease certain inclines which riders mayexperience during the ride by inflating or deflating certain inflatablestructures or items that may be integrated into the ride.

With the foregoing in mind, FIG. 30 illustrates an example flow chart ofa method 360 for adjusting certain parameters of an amusement parkexhibit or ride based on data related to a user. Although the followingdescription of the method 360 is described as being performed by thecontrol system 40, it should be noted that any suitable computing devicemay perform the process described herein.

Referring now to FIG. 30, at block 362, the control system 40 mayreceive a set of data related to a user's desired parameters for acertain attraction. The parameters of an attraction may include anamount of desired force to experience during the course of a ride, adesired maximum speed experienced during the course of a ride, a maximumlevel of acceleration experienced during a ride, and the like. In someembodiments, the user may provide desired parameters at a computingsystem associated with operating the attraction or ride, and the desiredparameters may then be communicated to the control system 40. In oneembodiment, numerous parameters may be associated with a single valuefor an intensity level of the ride (e.g., a rate from 1 to 10).

In addition, a user may define a list of parameters for each individualexhibit at an amusement park or provide a general desired experienceparameter (e.g., slow, medium, fast) for a collection of exhibits at theamusement park. The list of parameters may be stored in a memory mediumor an electronic device, such as a smart phone, which may transfer theparameter data to the control system 40. In certain embodiments, theparameter data may be stored in a passive electronic device such as anRFID tag. As such, the control system 40 may retrieve the data relatedto the desired parameters via the sensors 22 or the like.

In addition to desired parameter data, at block 364, the control system40 may receive guest physical data, which may include details related tophysical features of the user. For example, the guest physical data mayinclude a height, a width, and weight of the user. In some embodiments,the guest physical data may include a body scan of the user that detailsthe contours and shape of the user's body. The guest physical data maybe used by the control system 40 to adjust various inflatable objects 12associated with various amusement park exhibits to secure the user toeach respective exhibit in a comfortable manner by accounting for theuser's physical features. Like the desired attraction parametersdescribed above, the guest physical data may be provided to the controlsystem 40 via a computing system associated with each respectiveattraction, via a memory component or computing device associated withthe user, a passive electronic device associated with the user, or thelike.

At block 366, the control system 40 may identify inflatable objects 12of a respective amusement park attraction that should be inflated ordeflated based on the parameter data and/or the guest physical datadescribed above. That is, depending on the particular attraction, thecontrol system 40 may accommodate the user's desired attractionparameters with respect to the user's physical data by modifying theinflation level, pressure, or state of various inflatable objects 12that may be incorporated into the respective attraction. Various exampleattractions in which the inflatable objects 12 may be adjusted based onthe desired attraction parameters and/or guest physical data isdiscussed below with reference to FIGS. 31-43.

After identifying the inflatable objects 12 and determining anappropriate pressure or inflation level for each of the identifiedinflatable objects 12, the control system 40 may, at block 368, send oneor more commands to the valves 18 or to a controller associated with thevalves 18. The commands may cause the valves 18 to fluidly connect ordisconnect the fluid source (e.g., liquid source 26/gas source 28) tothe respective inflatable objects 12. The control system 40 may receivefeedback from sensors 22 or the meters 20 to determine whether eachrespective inflatable object 12 has been inflated to a determined level.After determining that the inflatable objects 12 are inflated to thedetermined levels, the control system 40 may send commands to the valves18 or the associated controllers to disconnect the fluid source from theinflatable objects 12.

With the foregoing in mind, FIGS. 31, 32, and 33 illustrate how a waterride attraction may use inflatable patterns to adjust certain parametersof the water ride attraction in accordance with the method 360 describedabove. FIG. 31 illustrates a side view 380 of a water ride attractionthat may include a body of water 382 and an inflatable grid structure384. The body of water 382 may include a channel of water in which awatercraft 386 or other suitable floating vehicle may traverse. Theinflatable grid structure 384 is depicted as deflated in FIG. 31 andthus provides little friction with respect to the flow of the water 382.As such, the watercraft 386 may traverse the body of water 382 at acertain speed depending on a force in which the watercraft 386 enteredthe body of water 382.

Referring back to the method 360 of FIG. 30, if the desired attractionparameter indicated a maximum speed or force value that exceeds theexpected speed or forces exerted on the watercraft 386 based on theproperties of the water ride attraction and the guest physical data, thecontrol system 40 may inflate the inflatable grid structure 384 to causethe water 382 to become more shallow and provide more friction withrespect to the flow of the water 382. That is, the control system 40 maysend a command to the valve 18 to open and fluidly couple the fluidsource to the inflatable grid structure 384.

FIG. 32 illustrates the side view 380 of the water ride attraction withthe inflatable grid structure inflated. As shown in FIG. 32, when theinflatable grid structure 384 is in an inflated state, the water 382becomes more shallow, as compared to when the inflatable grid structure384 is deflated. As a result, the watercraft 386 may traverse the water382 at a reduced speed, as compared to when the inflatable gridstructure 384 is deflated.

The inflatable grid structure 384 may form a grid pattern, which mayincrease an amount of friction against the flow of the water 382. FIG.33 illustrates a top view 390 of the inflatable grid structure 384 wheninflated. The pattern and the reduced depth of the water 382 may causethe watercraft 386 to traverse the water at a slower speed.

In some embodiments, the control system 40 may adjust the height orpressure of the inflatable grid structure 384 or other suitableinflatable object 12 based on the desired attraction parameters andguest physical data. For instance, if the user's preference is for amedium level of speed or force, the control system 40 may inflate theinflatable grid structure 384 to approximately half of its maximumrating. As such, the watercraft 386 may traverse the water 382 fasterthan if the inflatable grid structure 384 was fully inflated, yet slowerthan if the inflatable grid structure 384 was fully deflated.

Although the inflatable grid structure 384 is depicted as having a gridpattern, it should be noted that the water ride attraction may use othertypes of inflatable objects 12 to adjust the flow of the water 382. Forexample, the water ride attraction may include a number of inflatableobstacles that may be positioned at various locations within the water382 without regard to any particular pattern.

In addition to adjusting a water flow, the present embodiments describedherein may include adjusting the incline of a slide feature of a waterpark ride. That is, a slide feature may have a steeper incline for oneuser and a less steep incline for another user. For example, FIGS. 34and 35 illustrate an example embodiment in which a slope of a slidefeature 400 may be adjusted using an inflatable jack 402. By way ofexample, based on the desired attraction parameters and the guestphysical data, the control system 40 may determine a slope value for theslide feature 400. The inflatable jack 402 may be positioned at eitherend of a slide, at positions along the slide, or multiple inflatablejacks may be positioned at various locations (e.g., at each end).

In one embodiment, the control system 40 may use the inflatable jack 402as a lifting mechanism to raise or lower an end portion of the slidefeature 400, thereby decreasing or increasing the slope of the slidefeature 400. Referring back to FIG. 30, after receiving the desiredattraction parameters (e.g., maximum speed) and the guest physical data,the control system 40 may determine an angle or slope for the slidefeature 400 to allow the respective guest to have an experience thatmatches his desired parameters. For example, the control system 40 maydetermine the desired slope of the slide feature 400 to achieve adesired or maximum speed while the guest traverses the slide based onthe weight of the guest.

With this in mind, the control system 40 may send a signal or command tothe valve 18 to fluidly connect the fluid source to the inflatableobject 12, thereby inflating the inflatable jack 402. As shown in FIG.34, when the inflatable jack 402 is deflated or includes less fluid thanwhen it is fully inflated, as depicted in FIG. 35, the slide feature 400has a steeper or higher incline, as compared to when the inflatable jack402 includes more fluid. As such, the pressure or amount of fluid storedin the inflatable jack 402 may directly correspond to an expected speedin which a guest may traverse the slide feature 400.

In certain embodiments, the inflatable jack 402 may be incorporated intoa side 406 of the slide feature 400 via a coupling feature (e.g., tubingsewn into slide feature 400). The slide feature 400 may also be made upof an inflatable material and filled with a fluid. To increase thedeflation process of the inflatable jack 402, a suction pump or othersuitable device may pull the fluid out of the inflatable jack 402.

In addition to controlling the slope of the slide feature 400, thecontrol system 40 may control a speed or amount of force exerted on aguest in certain amusement park attractions with certain turn features.By way of example, FIGS. 36 and 37 illustrate a top view of a turnfeature 410 of an attraction. The turn feature may include a turn that aguest traverses during a water slide attraction, a roller coasterattraction, a dry slide attraction, or the like. In any case, the turnfeature 410 may include an expected path 412 that a guest may traversewhen encountering the turn feature 410 during the attraction. As shownin FIG. 36, the turn feature 410 may cause the expected path 412 toinclude an approximately 90 degree turn. While turning on the turnfeature 410, the guest may experience a certain amount of force that mayinduce a certain amount of excitement or emotion.

Referring briefly back to the method 360 of FIG. 30, the guest maycontrol the level of excitement or force that he experiences byproviding desired attraction parameters. With this in mind, aninflatable bumper 414 stored in a cavity 416 positioned along the turnof the turn feature 410 may be used to adjust the speed or force thatthe guest experiences while traversing the turn feature 410. That is, ifthe control system 40 receives desired attraction parameters thatindicates that the guest requests a certain maximum force that is lessthan the force exerted on the guest while traveling through the turnfeature 410, the control system 40 may send a signal or command to thevalve 18 to fluidly connect the fluid source to the inflatable bumper414.

When inflated, the inflatable bumper may adjust the turning angle thatthe guest experiences during the attraction. As shown in FIG. 37,inflating the inflatable bumper 414 may cause a radius of a curvature inthe turn feature 410 to increase as compared to the radius of thecurvature depicted in FIG. 36. As a result, an expected path 418 of theguest may include a less dramatic turn and thus the guest may experienceless forces, as compared to traversing the expected path 412.

As discussed above with respect to other embodiments, the inflatablebumper 414 may also be coupled to a suction pump or similar type ofdevice to pull the fluid out from the inflatable bumper 414. Inaddition, mechanical motors or the like may be coupled to ropes or tiesattached to various points of the inflatable bumper 414 to pull thematerial that makes up the inflatable bumper 414 into the cavity 416. Insome embodiments, the cavity may include a door mechanism that opensoutward towards the curvature of the slide feature 400, thereby allowingthe inflatable bumper 414 to form. After the inflatable bumper 414 isretracted back into the cavity 416, the door mechanism may close and maystay in a position that prevents it from bending toward the cavity 416.As such, the door mechanism may provide a surface material for the guestto traverse when the inflatable bumper 414 is not present and yet allowthe inflatable bumper 414 to exit from the cavity 416.

In certain embodiments, multiple inflatable bumpers 414 may be stored inthe cavity 416, such that depending on the desired attraction parametersand the guest physical data, the control system 40 may inflate aparticular inflatable bumper 414 to meet the expectations of the guest.Each different inflatable bumper 414 may provide a different radius forthe curvature of the turn feature 410. Using the various radii of thecurvatures available in the inflatable bumpers 414, the desiredattraction parameters, and the guest physical data, the control system40 may determine which of the inflatable bumpers 414 causes the guest toexperience his desired attraction parameters. The control system 40 maythen cause the appropriate inflatable bumper 414 to inflate.

In addition to controlling certain parameters of an attraction, the IPS10 may be used to create a unique experience or define how a certainattraction may operate. That is, a user may design certain features(e.g., slides, turns, heights) of a ride using the control system 40 orother suitable device. After receiving the desired features, the controlsystem 40 may inflate and adjust fluid directing mechanisms of variousinflatable objects 12 to form the ride designed by the user.

With the foregoing in mind, FIG. 38 illustrates a top view of anattraction (e.g., water slide, dry slide, vehicle ride) pathway 430 thatmay be adjusted using an inflatable path director 432. As shown in FIG.38, a first pathway 434 may include traveling from region A to region Bby proceeding along a relatively straight line. In some embodiments, thecontrol system 40 may receive an indication (e.g., desired attractionparameters) that the guest desires to experience a loop feature 436 inthe attraction pathway 430. To provide the guest with the requestedexperience, the control system may send a signal or command to the valve18 or other suitable device to fluidly connect the fluid source to theinflatable path director 432.

After the inflatable path director 432 is inflated, the first pathway434 may become blocked and the guest may be diverted to second pathway438. Like the inflatable bumper 414 described above, the inflatable pathdirector 432 may be stored in a cavity and may create a curvature in themiddle of the first pathway 434 that diverts guests or vehiclestraversing the first pathway 434. As a result, the guest may experiencethe loop feature 436 of the attraction.

In certain embodiments, an amusement attraction may include a number ofinflatable path directors 432, inflatable walls 322, and otherinflatable objects 12 as described herein embedded into the floor of anexhibit. The control system 40 may provide a number of designs for acourse of the attraction via an electronic display or the like. A guestmay specify to the control system 40 a particular design or may select aportion of the inflatable objects 12 embedded into the floor to inflate.In this way, the guest may design his own course or pathway for anattraction, may build his own maze structure in an attraction, controlslide and turn velocities of an attraction, and the like. In certainembodiments, the guest may access the designs or the availableinflatable objects 12 of an attraction via the Internet or via a localnetwork. The guest may then select one or more designs for one or moreattractions or create a unique design for an attraction based on theavailable inflatable objects 12. In any case, the selected or createddesign may be stored in a cloud storage system or any other suitablememory medium (e.g., RFID tag), such that the control system 40 mayautomatically implement the respective design for a respectiveattraction in response to receiving an indication of the respectivedesign via the sensors 22, a communication link with the cloud storagesystem, communication with an electronic device (e.g., smartphone), orthe like. That is, the control system 40 may adjust the states ofvarious inflatable objects 12 based on a design selected or designed bya user at an earlier time. As a result, the user may enhance hisexperience with various attractions at the amusement park by designinghis attraction experience well in advance of his trip to the amusementpark. The designs may be rated by other guests via a website or othersuitable medium that allows different users to rate the various designsof different attractions modified using inflatable objects 12.

In addition to embedding inflatable objects 12 into the floor to adjustan operation of an attraction, inflatable objects 12 may also beembedded into the floor to provide targets for guests in a shootinggallery exhibit. The control system 40 may, in some embodiments, controlthe speed in which certain targets are inflated based on a desired levelof difficulty. That is, if a user specifies (e.g., desired attractionparameters) a relatively high difficulty level, the control system 40may inflate a number of the inflatable objects 12 using a high-pressurefluid source to create inflatable targets at a certain rate. If the userspecifies (e.g., desired attraction parameters) a relatively lowdifficulty level, the control system 40 may inflate a number of theinflatable objects 12 using a lower-pressure fluid source to createinflatable targets at a rate slower than the higher difficulty rate. Inaddition, the control system 40 may inflate more targets for a higherdifficulty rate, as compared to a lower difficulty rate.

In some embodiments, the guest may specify certain features of afunhouse or maze exhibit. For example, FIGS. 39 and 40 illustrate a roomenvironment 460 that has an inflatable ceiling 462. The inflatableceiling 462 may be coupled to a coupling feature 464 via a wire or line466. The line 466 may include a tension force that causes the inflatableceiling 462 to retract to the ceiling 468 of the room environment 460.If the guest provides a request, to the control system 40, to make theceiling 468 taper down or shrink, the control system 40 may send asignal or command to the valve 18 to fluidly couple the fluid source tothe inflatable ceiling 462, which may be made to have a triangular shapethat decreases the ceiling height across the room environment 460, asshown in FIG. 40.

In the same manner, the guest may specify how a terrain or floor of aroom environment changes via instructions to the control system 40. Forinstance, FIGS. 41 and 42 illustrate a room environment 480 thatincludes an inflatable flooring feature 482 that may adjust a structureof a floor 484. As shown in FIG. 42, the control system 40 may inflatethe inflatable flooring feature 482, which may form a trapezoidal shapethat the guest may then traverse in the room environment 480. Althoughthe foregoing ceiling features and the flooring features are depicted asforming a triangular and trapezoidal shape, it should be understood thatthese inflatable features may be molded to form any suitable shape.Indeed, a variety of shapes and types of designs for the ceilingfeatures and the flooring features may be presented to the guest whenthe guest is in the process of designing her respective exhibitexperience.

It should also be noted that the various embodiments, in whichinflatable objects adjust an exhibit experience, described above may beincorporated into the virtual reality environment 280 described above.That is, the IPS 10 may coordinate the inflation and deflation ofvarious features of a room to coordinate with the virtual environmentpresented to the guest via the virtual reality system 282.

In addition to customizing exhibit experiences, the IPS 10 may be usedin amusement ride seating to adjust the height, width, restraints, orother features of the seating to accommodate the individual guest. Forinstance, the inflatable objects 12 may be positioned at variouslocations with respect to a ride's seat to accommodate the ride'sphysical specifications for the guest. That is, the inflatable objects12 may be filled with fluid to accommodate each individual guest toensure that the guest is nestled in the seat for the duration of theride.

With regard to incorporating inflatable objects 12 into amusement parkride seats, in some embodiments, the control system 40 may inflate theinflatable objects 12 disposed in the seats or in restraints used tokeep a guest secure in the seat to adjust certain properties of the seator restraints. For instance, the control system 40 may inflate theinflatable object 12 positioned at the bottom of a seat to adjust theseat's height based on the guest physical data and parameters (e.g.,expected forces) of the amusement park ride. As briefly mentioned above,in one embodiment, a digital scan or similar sensed identification ofthe physical properties of the guest may be acquired before entering theride and the seat may automatically adjust based on the guest physicaldata received by the control system 40. In another embodiment, thecontrol system 40 may adjust the inflatable objects 12 within the seatto fit or nestle the guest based on the weight and dimensions of theguest. Sensors 22 may be disposed on the seat or on the vehicle carryingthe guest through the amusement park exhibit to provide feedback withregard to whether additional space is available between the inflatedinflatable object 12 and the guest when the guest is seated in the seat.

The control system 40 may also receive data from the sensors 22 or thelike concerning other characteristics of the guest positioned in theseat. For instance, data may be provided to the control system 40 toindicate positions of the feet of the guest while seated, the positionof the guest's head while seated, and the like. This data may bereceived via the sensors 22, as described above which may include imagesensors (e.g., camera), weight sensors, light sensors, proximitysensors, and other suitable devices.

In addition to embedding the inflatable objects 12 into the seats, thepresent embodiments use the inflatable objects 12 as a restraint tosecure the guest in his seat. For example, the inflatable objects may bepositioned within the seat as a safety belt and inflated to secure theguest within the seat. In addition, the inflatable objects 12 of theseat or restraints may be inflated or deflated during various portionsof the ride. That is, depending on the expected speed/force of themoving vehicle, the desired attraction parameters, and the guestphysical data, for example, the control system 40 may inflate or deflatethe inflatable objects 12 to counteract various forces experienced bythe guest during the ride to provide a more comfortable experience forthe guest.

Keeping the forgoing in mind, FIG. 43 illustrates an example amusementpark ride system 500 that includes inflatable seat adjusters 502,inflatable back supports 504, inflatable head rests 506, inflatablerestraint supports 508, and inflatable step stools 510 incorporated intoan amusement park car 512 (e.g., ride vehicle cabin). Referring to FIG.43, the car 512 may include a fluid source (e.g., liquid source 26, gassource 28) to provide fluid to various inflatables positioned within thecar 512.

By way of example, the inflatable seat adjuster 502 may be positioned ona seat where a guest may rest while seated. To compensate for the lackof height of a guest, the control system 40 may inflate the inflatableseat adjuster 502 via the valve 18 and the fluid source. The inflatableseat adjuster 502 may be stored in a cavity 513 within the seat. As theinflatable seat adjuster 502 inflates, the inflatable seat adjuster 502may exit the cavity 513 and help to raise a position of the head of aseated guest to enable him to be positioned properly for a restraint 514to secure the guest to the seat during the ride.

In addition, to compensate for a lack of torso depth of a guest, thecontrol system 40 may inflate the inflatable back support 504 to pushthe seated guest towards the restraint 514. Like the inflatable seatadjuster 502, the inflatable back support 504 may be stored in a cavity516. In the same manner, the inflatable restraint supports 508 may bestored inside a cavity 518 within the restraints 514. Is someembodiments, the control system 40 may inflate the inflatable backsupport 504 and the inflatable restraint supports 508 to secure theguest between the back of the seat and the inside of the restraint 514and, in some embodiments, in conjunction with the type of experienceguests request based on input gathered prior to or during the ride.

In some embodiments, the car 512 may include the inflatable step stool510 positioned on the floor of the car 512 in front of the seat. Theinflatable step stool 510 may be inflated to accommodate the guest'sfeet if they do not reach the floor of the car 512. In addition, theinflatable step stool 510 may be inflated to assist a guest to reach oraccess the seat of the car 512.

The inflatable head rests 506 may be stored in a cavity 520 and may beinflated to extend out from the back of the head rest of the seat and/orout to the sides of the guest's head when seated. In some embodiments,the inflatable head rests 506 may be inflated to secure the guest's headduring the course of the ride. In addition, the inflatable head rests506 may be inflated at a particular side of the guest's head tocompensate for certain forces exerted on the guest during the ride.Referring briefly back to the method 360 of FIG. 30, the desiredattraction parameters may include a desired force or comfort levelduring the ride experience. Using this data, the control system 40 mayadjust the inflation levels of the inflatable seat adjusters 502, theinflatable back supports 504, the inflatable head rests 506, and theinflatable restraint supports 508 to compensate for different forcesexerted on the guest during the course of the ride.

In addition, inflatable slides or structures (e.g., ladders) may also beembedded in the car 512 to enable guests to exit different portions ofthe ride that may be positioned off of the ground or in places that maybe difficult to reach by traditional ladders and the like. As such,stuck cars may have an ability to provide the guest rider a means toexit the car 512 and reach the ground.

With the forgoing in mind, in some embodiments, the various types ofinflatable objects 12 described may be inflated during the course of aride or an exhibit to create obstacles for the ride or user during theuser experience. In the same way, the inflatable objects 12 may deflate,such that obstacles are removed during the course of a ride or exhibit.The inflatable objects 12 may also inflate and deflate to differentpressure levels to form an object having a hard surface to one havingvarying degrees of a soft or amorphous surface. As mentioned above withregard to the balloons, different portions of the inflatable objects 12may be inflated or gas deflecting mechanisms may be controlled while gasis pumped into the material to make the resulting formation move, changeshapes, and the like.

Enhancing Amusement Park Attractions Using Inflatable Objects

In addition to the embodiments described above, the inflatable objects12 described herein may be placed in a variety of amusement parkattractions to perform additional functions such as assisting vehiclesto propel in a certain direction, providing a means to halt an amusementpark ride, and the like. By way of example, certain amusement park ridesmay include ride vehicle cabins with inflatable objects 12 disposedwithin the surface of the cabins to assist the vehicle if it becomesimmobile or stuck against another object. That is, upon detecting thatthe vehicle is not moving in an expected fashion, the control system 40may inflate a particular inflatable object 12 to push the vehicleagainst an object that may be obstructing its motion.

Keeping this in mind, FIGS. 44 and 45 illustrate a ride vehicle 530 thathas a number of inflatable bumpers 532 that project from cavities 534within the ride vehicle 530. In some embodiments, the inflatable bumpers532 may be positioned around the perimeter of the ride vehicle 530.Although FIGS. 44 and 45 illustrate the inflatable bumpers 532positioned at the bottom of the ride vehicle 530, it should be notedthat the inflatable bumpers 532 may be positioned in any suitablelocation on the ride vehicle 530.

As shown in FIGS. 44 and 45, the ride vehicle 530 may include a numberof sensors 22 that may detect whether any object or obstruction ispositioned in front or behind the ride vehicle 530. In some embodiments,the control system 40 may determine whether the ride vehicle 530 isimmobilized due to an obstruction or the like via data acquired by thesensors 22. In one example, the sensors 22 may include image datasensors that may detect obstacles positioned in front of the ridevehicle 530. In situations where the ride vehicle 530 is determined tobe immobilized, the control system 40 may send a signal or command tothe valves 18 that fluidly couple the inflatable bumpers 532 to thefluid source. When the ride vehicle 530 is immobilized due to anobstruction or misalignment with a track, the inflatable bumpers 532 maybe inflated such that the inflatable bumpers 532 push against a groundsurface to lift the ride vehicle 530, move the ride vehicle 530 off ofthe obstruction, and the like.

In operation, the control system 40 may receive data from the sensors 22related to the mobility of the ride vehicle 530. In response toreceiving an indication that the ride vehicle 530 is immobilized (e.g.,image of obstruction detected, loss of velocity detected, stalledposition detected), the control system 40 may send the command to thevalves 18 to inflate the inflatable bumpers 532. In addition, in someembodiments, the control system 40 may receive an indication or commandvia a user that specifies a particular inflatable bumper 532 to inflate.The control system 40 may, in turn, cause the valves 18 to fluidlyconnect the inflatable bumper 532 to the fluid source.

In addition to incorporating inflatable objects 12 in the ride vehicle530, aquatic amusement park attractions may use inflatable objects 12 tohalt a ride, provide an exit from the ride, and the like. By way ofexample, FIGS. 46 and 47 illustrate an aquatic amusement park ride 550that may employ an inflatable platform 552 to stop a floating vehicle554 or provide a pathway off of the floating vehicle 554.

In certain embodiments, the inflatable platform 552 may be disposed atthe bottom of a pool or water basin in which the floating vehicle 554may traverse the course of the aquatic amusement park ride 550. Theinflatable platform 552 may also be positioned in other suitable areassuch as under a dock 556, along a bank or edge of the water basin, andthe like. In any case, if the control system 40 receives a command orsignal to stop the aquatic amusement park ride 550 or provide an exitfrom the floating vehicle 554, the control system 40 may send a commandto the valves 18 to fluidly couple the fluid source to the inflatableplatform 552.

In its inflated configuration, as shown in FIG. 47, the inflatableplatform 552 may rise above a water line 558, such that the floatingvehicle 554 may no longer traverse or project along the water. Indeed,the floating vehicle 554 may be stopped from moving to allow a guest toexit the floating vehicle 554 and walk across the inflatable platform552 to the dock 556. In some embodiments, the inflatable platform 552may be positioned at various locations within the aquatic amusement parkride 550 to provide different locations where the floating vehicle 554may stop and a guest may exit.

In addition to ground and aquatic environments, the IPS 10 may be usedwith unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) (e.g., drones) to enhance a guest'sexperience at the amusement park. In one example, UAVs may include theinflatable object 12 that may form various shapes while the UAV is inflight. In one embodiment, the UAV may include a motor or pump dedicatedto inflating the material. The flight or control of the UAV maycounteract the force of the gas being pumped into the material tomaintain its flight pattern. In another embodiment, the UAV may betethered to an off-board gas supply that may provide gas for theinflatable material.

FIG. 48 illustrates an example of a pneumatic UAV system 570 thatemploys UAVs 572 to keep an inflatable figure 574 afloat. The UAVs 572may operate based on preprogrammed flight patterns or may receiveinstructions with regard to its flight pattern from the control system40 or the like. In certain embodiments, the inflatable figure 574 may becoupled to the fan 142 or the fluid source (e.g., liquid source 26/gassource 28), which may inflate tubes 576 and 578. Tubes 576 and 578 mayform an outline of the inflatable FIG. 574. To assist the UAVs 572, theinflatable tubes 576 and 578 may be inflated with relatively low-densitygas (e.g., floats in common atmosphere), such as helium.

The fan 142 may provide a fluid/gas for the inflatable figure 574 or maybe used to assist the UAVs 572 to direct the motion or movement of theinflatable figure 574. In some embodiments, the fan 142 may include acontroller or other suitable computing device that may communicativelycouple with the control system 40. As such, the control system 40 maycoordinate the circulation of fluids in the inflatable figure 574 usingthe fan 142 and the fluid source. That is, the control system 40 may usethe UAVs 572 to control a motion of the inflatable figure 574 across onedirection (e.g., z-axis) and inflate the inflatable tube 578 with heliumto control the motion of the inflatable figure 574 in another direction(e.g., y-axis) or provide a lift force. To conserve a supply of thehelium, the control system 40 may pump ambient air into the inflatabletube 576, such that the inflatable tube 576 may retain a certain shape.

In each of the embodiments described above, fluid (e.g., liquid or gas)may be circulated through the inflatable figure 574 or any otherinflatable object 12 described herein to maintain a certain pressurewithin the inflatable assembly. In one embodiment, the circulated fluidmay return to a pump or similar device to continuously reuse the fluidprovided via a fluid source or the like.

To coordinate the motion and shapes depicted by the inflatable figure574, the control system 40 may use a variety of sensors 22 to determinethe current shape, orientation, and/or position of the inflatable figure574 or other suitable inflatable objects 12. For example, the shape ofthe inflatable figure 574 may be dynamically tracked by infrared orvisible light sensors and the like. For example, FIG. 49 illustrates anexample inflatable figure 590 that includes a pressure sensor 592, atension sensor 594, and an image sensor 596 for providing dataconcerning the shape or arrangement of the inflatable figure 590. Thepressure sensor 592 may detect a pressure in a particular area or regionof the inflatable figure 590. In some embodiments, the pressure datareceived from the pressure sensor 592 may be associated with differentshapes or configurations of the inflatable figure 590. For instance, arelatively low pressure measurement may indicate that the extremities598 of the inflatable figure 590 may be retracted, while a relativelyhigh pressure measurement may indicate that the extremities 598 of theinflatable figure 590 may be extended.

The tension sensors 594 may measure a tension of the inflatable materialthat makes up a portion of the inflatable figure 590. In someembodiments, the tension sensor 594 may be disposed on the inflatablematerial to measure an amount of tension or force that is on theinflatable material. A relatively high tension measurement may indicatethat the portion (e.g., extremity 598) of the inflatable figure 590 maybe extended outward, whereas a relatively low tension measurement mayindicate that the portion (e.g., extremity 598) of the inflatable figure590 may be retracted inward.

In addition to the tension sensors 594 and the pressure sensors 592, thecontrol system 40 may receive image data from an image sensor 596 thatmay be positioned inside or outside the inflatable figure 590. The imagedata may provide an indication as to how the inflatable figure 590 mayappear. In addition, the image sensor 596 may be positioned to monitor aparticular portion of the inflatable figure 590. As such, the controlsystem 40 may use image data from a number of image sensors 596 toascertain the current shape of the inflatable figure 590. Using the dataprovided by the various sensors 22 and data indicative of a desiredshape or motion for the inflatable figure 590, the control system 40 maycoordinate the flow of fluids to the inflatable figure 590 or portionsof the inflatable figure 590 to achieve the desired shape or motion.

Although FIG. 49 illustrates certain types of sensors 22, it should benoted that other suitable sensors 22 may be positioned in or around theinflatable figure 590 to provide the control system 40 with dataregarding the shape of the inflatable figure 590. For instance, lightsensors may be positioned inside the inflatable figure 590 to detect adistance between the light sensor and the inflatable material todetermine a current position or shape of the inflatable figure 590.

In addition to controlling valves 20, fans 142, and the like, thecontrol system 40 may, in some embodiments, control a projector systemthat may display images on an inflated object 12 to provide the objectcertain artistic details. That is, the projector system may activelyproduce images to map certain projections onto the inflatable object 12.In this way, the visual appearance of the inflatable object 12 can bealtered through its physical morphology and using dynamically projectedimages. Generally, the shape of the inflated figure may be tracked inreal time, visually, as it is being actuated, as described above.Projection mapping techniques may then be used to change the visualappearance of the inflated figure. Because of the nature of inflatableobjects, present embodiments may employ the sensors described above withrespect to FIG. 49 to provide information regarding the shape of theinflated object, which may be used to determine what images and whatsize of images should be projected onto the inflatable objects 12.

By way of example, FIG. 50 illustrates an inflatable architecturalelement 600 including a projector system 602 that may project images vialight rays that depict an image. The inflatable architectural element600 may include a number of inflatable members, such that differentcombinations of inflated configurations of the inflatable members createdifferent shapes of the inflatable architectural element 600. Theprojector system 602 may include a projecting light source that projectsor displays images onto a surface. The projector system 602 may bepositioned inside or outside the inflatable architectural element 600.In the example provided in FIG. 50, the inflatable architectural element600 may form a certain shape in its inflated configuration. However,without any images, patterns, or color on the inflatable architecturalelement 600, the inflatable architectural element 600 may not resembleany discernable figure or structure to a guest of an amusement park. Inother embodiments, the inflatable architectural element 600 may depict adistinctly different discernable figure or structure than the projectedimage.

In certain embodiments, after the shape and positions of the inflatablearchitectural element 600 are detected by the sensors 22, the projectorsystem 602 may project an image that provides details for the inflatablearchitectural element 600. For instance, the projector system 602 mayproject images of windows 604, buildings 606, a tower 608, and otherarchitectural features, as depicted in FIG. 51. In addition, theprojector system 602 may depict or present damaged portions 610 of theinflatable architectural element 600. The projections may change as theinflatable architectural element 600 is inflated and deflated (e.g., abuilding may turn to rubble as deflated).

In addition, animated objects and figures may be presented on theinflatable architectural element 600 to cause a guest to view changesoccurring to the inflatable architectural element 600. For example, adragon figure 612 may be projected onto the inflatable architecturalelement 600 via the projector system 602 to enhance the guest'sexperience with the inflatable architectural element 600.

In some embodiments, the images projected onto the inflatablearchitectural element 600 may be determined based on the shape andposition of the inflatable architectural element 600. As such, thecontrol system 40 may control the flow of fluid into various inflatableobjects 12 that make up the inflatable architectural element 600 tocause the inflatable architectural element 600 to change shapes orpositions. As the inflatable architectural element 600 morphs, thecontrol system 40 and the sensors 22 may provide data to the projectorsystem 602, which may include similar components as described above withrespect to the control system 40 of FIG. 2. Based on the received data,the projector system 602 may adjust the images projected onto theinflatable architectural element 600 to match the current shape andposition of the inflatable architectural element 600.

Although the foregoing description of the projector system 602 isdescribed with the inflatable architectural element 600, it should benoted that the projector system 602 described herein may be used withany suitable inflatable object 12. That is, the inflatable object 12 mayinclude any of the figures described herein and may be applied tolarge-scale objects and smaller-scale objects.

It should be noted that each of the embodiments described herein may beused in certain exhibits at an amusement park or the like to performlive-action shows or presentations. However, by using the IPS 10described herein, inflatable objects 12 may become accessible to theaudience given the nature of using fluid flow to control the movementsof the objects. As a result, the IPS 10 may enable more amusementattractions and exhibits to be made interactive, such that the exhibitschange shapes or move in certain directions in response to the controlsystem 40 detecting a guest's position, gesture, or motion.

Indeed, using fluids to control motions in an exhibit provide for morelife-like motions, as compared to mechanical devices moving in linearmotions. Moreover, the material (e.g., a vinyl material, a rubbermaterial) may expand and retract more naturally and thus may convey amore realistic motion of the associated object. As a result, the guest'sexperience is enhanced in an amusement park that provides moreinteractive exhibits that are safe to touch and respond in more naturaland realistic motions.

While only certain features of the present disclosure have beenillustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes willoccur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understoodthat the appended claims are intended to cover all such modificationsand changes as fall within the true spirit of the embodiments describedherein.

1. A system, comprising: a housing configured to hold a body of water;an inflatable assembly disposed within the body of water; and aprocessor configured to: receive an indication related to a speed of aflow of the body of water; and send a signal to at least one valvecoupled between the inflatable assembly and a fluid source in responseto the indication, wherein the signal is configured to cause the atleast one valve to fluidly couple the inflatable assembly to the fluidsource to cause the inflatable assembly to expand to an inflatedconfiguration.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the inflatable assemblyis configured to reduce the speed of the flow of the body of water inthe inflated configuration.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein theinflatable assembly comprises a grid pattern in the inflatedconfiguration.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor isconfigured to: receive physical data regarding a user to traverse thebody of water; and determine a level of the inflated configuration basedon the physical data and the indication.
 5. The system of claim 1,wherein the indication comprises a level of force to be exerted on auser traversing the body of water.
 6. The system of claim 1, wherein theinflatable assembly is configured to direct a user to a portion of aslide feature.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein the inflatable assemblycomprises a plurality of inflatable objects configured to reduce thespeed of the flow of the body of water.
 8. An inflatable assembly of apark attraction, comprising: a first zone; a second zone separated fromthe first zone by a distance; an inflatable object; one or more valves,wherein the one or more valves are controllable and configured to directfluid flow into the inflatable object such that the inflatable objectadjusts an incline of a portion of the inflatable assembly between thefirst zone and the second zone in the inflated configuration; and aprocessor configured to adjust one or more positions of the one or morevalves to control the fluid flow into the inflatable object based oninput indicative of a desired user experience.
 9. The inflatableassembly of claim 8, comprising a suction pump configured to pull fluidout of the inflatable object.
 10. The inflatable assembly of claim 8,wherein the processor is configured to receive a parameter associatedwith the incline as the input and determine a level of the inflatedconfiguration based on the parameter.
 11. The inflatable assembly ofclaim 10, wherein the level of the inflated configuration comprises apressure inside the inflated object.
 12. The inflatable assembly ofclaim 8, comprising: a slide assembly extending between the first zoneand the second zone at an angle, wherein the one or more valves areconfigured to direct fluid flow into the inflatable object such that theinflatable object adjusts a contour of the slide assembly between thefirst zone and the second zone in the inflated configuration.
 13. Theslide assembly of claim 12, wherein the processor is configured toadjust the one or more positions of the one or more valves based on datarelated to a desired speed or force associated with a user traversingthe slide assembly.
 14. A system, comprising: an amusement park ridevehicle cabin; a plurality of inflatable objects disposed in a pluralityof positions within a seat of the cabin; and one or more valvesconfigured to direct a fluid into each of the plurality of inflatableobjects; and a processor configured to adjust one or more positions ofthe one or more valves to cause the fluid to be directed into at leastone of the plurality of inflatable objects based on data regarding oneor more physical characteristics of a user of the seat of the cabin. 15.The system of claim 14, wherein a first inflatable object of theplurality of inflatable objects is disposed under the seat, and whereinthe first inflatable object is configured to adjust a height position ofthe user while seated in the seat.
 16. The system of claim 14, wherein afirst inflatable object of the plurality of inflatable objects isdisposed in a back of the seat, and wherein the first inflatable objectis configured to push the user toward a front of the seat.
 17. Thesystem of claim 14, wherein a first inflatable object of the pluralityof inflatable objects is disposed in a restraint of the seat, andwherein the first inflatable object is configured to push against theuser.
 18. The system of claim 14, wherein a first inflatable object anda second inflatable object of the plurality of inflatable objects aredisposed in a head rest of the seat, and wherein the first inflatableobject and the second inflatable object are configured to extendradially to each side of a head of the user.
 19. The system of claim 14,wherein a first inflatable object of the plurality of inflatable objectsis disposed on a floor of the cabin, and wherein the first inflatableobject is configured to extend above the floor when inflated.
 20. Thesystem of claim 14, comprising one or more sensors configured to acquireadditional data regarding a distance between the user and a restraint ofthe seat, wherein the processor is configured to adjust the one or morepositions of the one or more valves based on the additional data.